“Dharma position” (ho-i in Japanese) is a Soto Zen teaching, particularly emphasized by Master Dogen, stating that every thing, being, and moment is always in its own unique, perfect position. It means fully inhabiting the present moment and acting completely as oneself, where each particular thing embodies the whole of reality.
Key aspects of dharma position include:
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- Total Expression: When a thing is fully itself, it manifests the absolute. It is the intersection of the unique (vertical) and the universal (horizontal).
- Being-Time: Each moment is a “dharma position” that is transient yet represents the whole universe.
- Equanimity:
It is the practice of being exactly where you are and doing what is required, without seeking somewhere else.
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- Beyond Duality: It is not just a physical location, but a state of being that exists underneath the duality of self vs. other or good vs. bad.
Essentially, it is the wisdom that every “here” and “now” is the ultimate place of fulfillment and enlightenment